I'm looking at a new 2012 Ural Retro. Any advice on this model with the conventional front forks? I've never ridden a hack so it will be a new experience for me.

It seems to be more of a road model. I spend six months in flat Florida and six months in the mountains of Western North Carolina where I do ride some gravel roads but nothing that can't be handled by a two wheel drive car.

The other choice is the plain jane 2012 Ural T.

Thanks,

you should be able to order it with the leading link. I think the leading link is safer. I ordered mine with the leading link and no additional charge.

Took my first ride today on a hack today. It was a new just put together Yamal and was it fun. Big mistake on my part as I am definitely going to get a Ural now.
I am considering at a 2012 Retro, a 2012 Yamal, or a 2013 T so far.
I sat on the Retro and drove the Yamal and both fit me well. (5'11 215 lbs)

Does anyone know what upgrades are coming on the 2013s? Dealer says he can get a 2013 in early January.
Thanks,

Though decision... The factory hasn't released the changes for 2013 as of yet. To clear out current inventory Ural is offering an extra year of warranty if you buy by the end of the year. I think maybe another conversation with your dealer is in order for your final decision. I like the Yamal, I like the Retro, The, "T" isn't a bargain if you are planning on adding a spare tire, windshield, rear rack, etc. Those add ons will cost you more bought separately than just getting a Tourist IMHO. With the salt by the beaches in Florida the Yamal undercoating may be the way to go. Which rig felt more comfortable to you when you sat on it? The Retro will handle a little better on the street than the taller Yamal. If your planning on off road use, 2wd is nice to have. I wish I had to make these kind of decisions.... Whoo! Hoo!!!

Don't know if I can explain this properly, but will try. The Retro has a polished look, the others have a rugged utilitarian look.
Sort of like the Grand Cherokee VS the Wrangler. The GC will probably do everything the Wrangler will do, but the Wrangler looks just as good covered with mud as clean. If you like to polish your bike, stick to paved roads, and keep it clean, the Retro is good. If you like the back roads, mudholes, etc the others will handle it well and you won't feel guilty leaving it dirty.

With all its' nooks and crannies, Urals are hard to detail. I have a Patrol and usually keep it clean but sometimes wish I bought a Gear Up. That occasional scrape in the paint can be fixed with a paint brush, and just adds character.

Either way, see Gene in Holopaw. The difference in dealers makes all the difference in the world. He's worth the trip

Don't know if I can explain this properly, but will try. The Retro has a polished look, the others have a rugged utilitarian look.
Sort of like the Grand Cherokee VS the Wrangler. The GC will probably do everything the Wrangler will do, but the Wrangler looks just as good covered with mud as clean. If you like to polish your bike, stick to paved roads, and keep it clean, the Retro is good. If you like the back roads, mudholes, etc the others will handle it well and you won't feel guilty leaving it dirty.

With all its' nooks and crannies, Urals are hard to detail. I have a Patrol and usually keep it clean but sometimes wish I bought a Gear Up. That occasional scrape in the paint can be fixed with a paint brush, and just adds character.

Either way, see Gene in Holopaw. The difference in dealers makes all the difference in the world. He's worth the trip

Thanks for the guidance.
Heard nothing but great things about Holopaw but would like to buy local in Naples Florida if possible.
We will have to have a mini Ural rally in WNC next summer if I get a Ural.